New Orleans’ Top Feminist Spaces: A Celebration of Women-Led Businesses and Initiatives


Women in yoga class

New Orleans is home to a vibrant community of women-owned businesses and feminist initiatives that contribute to the city’s unique cultural fabric. From bookstores and community spaces to restaurants and bars, these establishments are trailblazing progressive change while fostering women’s empowerment.

Women-Owned Bookstores and Literary Spaces:

  • Blue Cypress Books: Nestled on Oak Street, Blue Cypress Books is a beloved, woman-owned independent bookstore. Offering a diverse collection of new and used books, this cozy shop is known for its welcoming atmosphere and community events that celebrate literature and learning.
  • Parlour Books: Another local gem, Parlour Books is owned by women and provides a thoughtfully curated selection of books that range from literary classics to modern favorites. This shop is more than just a bookstore—it’s a space that fosters intellectual conversation and community building.
  • Tubby & Coo’s Bookshop: This queer, feminist-owned independent bookstore focuses on elevating underrepresented voices, promoting social justice, and providing a community space for all. Tubby & Coo’s hosts book clubs, author signings, and workshops, making it a hub for progressive conversations in New Orleans.

Women-Owned Restaurants:

  • Compère Lapin: Chef Nina Compton, a celebrated James Beard Award-winning chef, helms this top-notch restaurant located in the Warehouse District. Fusing flavors from the Caribbean with Southern cuisine, Compton’s restaurant is a staple in New Orleans’ food scene and a proud testament to women-led culinary excellence.
  • Saffron NOLA: Owned and operated by the Vilkhu family, with a special focus on its matriarch, Pardeep Vilkhu, this restaurant blends Indian cuisine with New Orleans flair. Pardeep has led the charge in creating unique dishes that capture the essence of both cultures, creating a space where food brings people together.
  • Café Reconcile: Not only woman-led but also a non-profit, Café Reconcile provides life skills and job training to young people. Led by a strong team of women in management, the café is renowned for its Creole cuisine while contributing to positive social change in New Orleans.

Women-Owned Bars:

  • Bar Tonique: This woman-owned craft cocktail bar is a hidden gem in the French Quarter. Known for its creative cocktails, friendly service, and commitment to using local ingredients, Bar Tonique is a must-visit for cocktail lovers and supports progressive community initiatives.
  • The Elysian Bar: Located in the Marigny and part of the Hotel Peter & Paul, The Elysian Bar is co-owned by award-winning female restaurateur Melissa Martin. Known for its unique decor and refined cocktail offerings, it’s an ideal spot to experience a relaxing atmosphere and sip on innovative drinks.

Women-Owned Retail:

  • Trashy Diva: Founded by Candice Gwinn, Trashy Diva offers vintage-inspired clothing and accessories. The boutique has gained celebrity attention for its contemporary take on vintage styles.
  • Art & Eyes: Owned by Starr Hagenbring, this boutique offers a wide selection of independent eyewear brands and textile art. The store is known for its unique interior design and friendly staff.
  • Miss Claudia’s Vintage Clothing & Costumes: A unique secondhand store offering vintage clothing and old-school costumes for both men and women. The store is filled with a variety of items, including wigs, jewelry, and theme costumes.

Female-Led Sports and Activities:

  • Girls on the Run New Orleans: This empowerment-based program for young girls focuses on building confidence and leadership through running. Led by a team of passionate women, Girls on the Run hosts community running events and 5Ks to celebrate their participants’ achievements and promote fitness and empowerment.
  • NOLA Vibe Yoga: NOLA Vibe Yoga offers inclusive, community-driven yoga classes for all levels. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, the studio focuses on mindfulness, empowerment, and creating a supportive space for both physical and mental wellness. NOLA Vibe Yoga is committed to fostering a sense of belonging while promoting health and well-being in a nurturing environment.
  • Big Easy Roller Derby: Women-run and women-led, Big Easy Roller Derby is a dynamic and exciting way to see women empowering one another in the realm of sports. The roller derby team hosts competitive matches and practices regularly, offering a space for camaraderie and athletic prowess.

Community Spaces and Non-Profits Benefiting Women:

  • Women of the Revolution: This mobile feminist bookstore offers a range of new and used feminist literature, music, and media. It also serves as a resource and event space for feminist conversations, social justice work, and community engagement.
  • National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO-NOLA): Dedicated to supporting women entrepreneurs, NAWBO-NOLA offers mentorship, networking, and advocacy for women-owned businesses across New Orleans. Their events and programs foster collaboration and growth for women in business.
  • Women With a Vision: This non-profit organization is led by women of color and focuses on advocating for marginalized communities, particularly women. Through its programs, Women With a Vision promotes healthcare access, economic justice, and reproductive rights, making a significant impact in the lives of many women in the city.

New Orleans continues to be a thriving center for women-owned businesses and feminist initiatives. These spaces not only enrich the city culturally but also drive progressive change, empowering women and creating a community rooted in equality, inclusion, and strength.

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